A crown, sash and pretty girls in beautiful dresses. Sounds like the typical beauty pageant, right? Not in the case of Hal Jackson’s Talented Teen International (HJTTI)...
A crown, sash and pretty girls in beautiful dresses. Sounds like the typical beauty pageant, right? Not in the case of Hal Jackson’s Talented Teen International (HJTTI). With alumni like Michelle Thomas, Jada Pinkett-Smith and Georgia’s own American Idol top 40 finisher, Tataina McConnico. It is clear that talent is the main criteria for success. Yes there is a crown, sash, and beautiful gowns, but they seem to be an afterthought. The goal of HJTTI is to provide educational scholarships, provide opportunities to travel and develop artistic talent. It is a talent competition that fosters friendship and community involvement while providing mentorship to each girl.
Hal Jackson’s Talented Teen International began in 1971 as a way for young ladies to display their talent to the world. It grew into an international competition that allowed young ladies to not only display their talents, but be awarded academic scholarships, trips abroad and the opportunity to experience many cultural events. Mr. Harold “Hal” Jackson continues to serve as the executive producer along with his wife, Debi Jackson. Among many first, Mr. Jackson is known as the first African American to be inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame and the creator of the idea of the King Holiday. His legacy of giving continues through HJTTI.
Empowering Georgia’s Talented Youth Inc. (EGTYI) is the state sponsor of HJTTI of Georgia. Directors Arlisa Bradshaw and Vickee Clark have over 40 combined years of experience and it shows. In the 6 years they trained our Georgia youth, thousands of dollars in scholarship money, including 2-4 year academic scholarships have been secured. “We will be bringing the international title back to Georgia. We just need to find a talented young lady who will represent us well.” To achieve this goal, they will hold open auditions for young ladies 13- 17 (but not 18 before September 1) Sunday January 6, 2008 at the In- town YWCA located at 957 North Highland Ave. NE Atlanta 30306. They will also hold auditions for EGTYI Miss Talented Pre-Teen for girls ages 8-12. Both groups should prepare a one minute version of their talent and be accompanied by a parent or guardian. The directors will be present as well as past contest participants.
The state winner will win an academic scholarship and move on to compete against girls from all over the world in beautiful Tortola British Virgin Islands. As the winner, and all expenses for 8 days and 7 nights will be paid by EGTYI. For more information, visit www.talentedteenofga.com or www.talentedteens.org or call 404-312-0373 or 678-485-8337.